Afghanistan passport → Latvia

Latvia visa for citizens of Afghanistan

Embassy / VFSShort-stay Schengen Visa (C)

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Latvia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Short-stay Schengen Visa (C)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Proof of funds	Equivalent of €50–70 per day of intended stay

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and check requirements
Identify the purpose of travel (tourism, business, family visit) and confirm that Latvia is the main Schengen destination.
2
Gather all required documents
Collect original documents and photocopies as per the checklist above.
3
Complete the Schengen visa application form
Fill in the online or paper form (usually available on the Latvian embassy / VFS website) and sign it.
4
Book an appointment at the visa application centre or embassy
Appointments are mandatory for biometric enrollment; schedule online through the official channel (if no channel specified, contact the nearest Latvian embassy).
5
Pay the visa application fee
Fees are typically paid at the centre on the day of submission (amount not specified in source).
6
Attend the appointment and submit biometrics
Provide fingerprints, photograph, and submit all documents in person.
7
Wait for processing
Standard processing time is up to 15 calendar days, but may extend to 45 days in individual cases.
8
Collect the passport or receive it by courier
Check the status online; once decided, collect the passport in person or opt for courier if available.
9
Travel and comply with Schengen rules
Respect the duration of stay (max 90 days in any 180-day period) and carry supporting documents for border control.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least two blank pages)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure from the Schengen area.
Completed and signed visa application form
Print the form, sign it, and include recent passport-sized photographs.
Passport-sized photographs (35x45 mm, white background)
Two recent photos meeting ICAO standards.
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children)
Optional
Only if applicable and traveling with family.

Travel

Round-trip flight reservation / itinerary
Not a paid ticket, but a confirmed booking holding your PNR.
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter)
For the entire intended stay in Latvia / Schengen.

Financial

Bank statements from the last 3-6 months
To show sufficient funds for the trip (approx. €50-70 per day).

Employment

Employment letter (or proof of self-employment / study)
Must include salary, position, and approved leave dates.

Supporting

Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Must cover the entire Schengen area and the whole duration of stay.
Invitation letter (if visiting friends or family in Latvia)
Optional
Notarized by the Latvian Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs (PMLP).
Previous visa copies (if any)
Optional
Especially previous Schengen visas to show travel history.
Additional document for Afghan passport holders: proof of legal residence (if residing in a third country)
Optional
Applicants applying from outside Afghanistan may need to show their residence permit.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of €50–70 per day of intended stay

Personal bank statements (last 3–6 months)
Sponsorship letter with sponsor's bank statement (if applicable)

Funds must be readily available and clearly shown as regular income or savings.

Good to know

Afghan passport holders may face additional scrutiny and longer processing times; apply well in advance.
Visa applications must be submitted in person; no third-party submission is allowed without official authorization.
The official application URL, exact fees, and processing timelines are not provided in the source text and should be verified with the Latvian embassy or VFS Global.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or inconsistent documentation

Double-check the checklist and provide all required original and copied documents.

Insufficient funds or questionable financial means

Submit clear bank statements and a sponsor letter if supported by a third party.

Doubts about intention to return to home country

Provide strong ties evidence: employment letter, property deeds, family commitments, etc.

Travel insurance does not meet Schengen requirements

Purchase a policy with minimum €30,000 coverage, valid for the entire Schengen area and duration.

FAQ

Do citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Latvia?

Citizens of Afghanistan need a visa for Latvia and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay Schengen Visa (C).

What documents do citizens of Afghanistan need for Latvia?

Valid passport (with at least two blank pages); Completed and signed visa application form; Passport-sized photographs (35x45 mm, white background); Travel medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight reservation / itinerary; Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter); and 6 more.

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